Charlton Heston Dead

Charlton Heston has died. He was 84 years old, and survived by his wife of 64 years, Lydia, his two children Fraser Clarke and Holly Rochell, and three grandchildren, Jack Alexander, and Ridley and Charlie Rochell.

The following statement was released from his family: "To his loving friends, colleagues and fans, we appreciate your heartfelt prayers and support. Charlton Heston was seen by the world as larger than life. He was known for his chiseled jaw, broad shoulders and resonating voice, and, of course, for the roles he played. Indeed, he committed himself to every role with passion, and pursued every cause with unmatched enthusiasm and integrity.

We knew him as an adoring husband, a kind and devoted father, and a gentle grandfather, with an infectious sense of humor. He served these far greater roles with tremendous faith, courage and dignity. He loved deeply, and he was deeply loved.

No one could ask for a fuller life than his. No man could have given more to his family, to his profession, and to his country. In his own words, ‘I have lived such a wonderful life! I've lived enough for two people.’”

He has been the President of the Screen Actors Guild and Chairman of the American Film Institute, and of course, the President of the National Rifle Association. In 2003, he was awarded the highest honor a civilian may be bestowed, the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Heston won the Oscar for Best Actor in 1959 for Ben-Hur.

His other major films include Soylent Green, El Cid, The Ten Commandments, The Greatest Story Ever Told, Earthquake, 55 Days at Peking, and of course, Planet of the Apes. He also made a special, uncredited appearance in Tim Burton's Planet of the Apes, as Zaius, the father of Thade, and delivered a variation of one of his famous lines from the original movie.

Rest in peace, Charlton. You are forever part of American history.